Jesus, I my cross have taken,

Jesus, I my cross have taken, For the church my all to give, Destitute, despised, forsaken, Narrow way I'll never leave. Perish every fond ambition, All I've sought, and hope and known; Yet how poor is my condition, Christ and the church still my own!

Let the world despise and leave me, Of this world the church can't be; Human hearts and looks deceive me; The church my reality. And when in the church I'm living, Foes may hurt, friends disown me. Yet how peaceful in my being; The glorious church now I see.

Begone worldly fame and blessings, O come sufferings, ill and pain, For God's will 'tis joy in suff'ring, Work with Him, all loss are gained. Abba Father, I have called Thee, My whole heart I turn to Thee. Raging storm and clouds surround me, All things work for good to me.

Man may trouble and distress me, My heart's desire firm 'twill be. Life with trials hard may press me, The church life much sweeter be. Is there any grief to harm me, While Thy glory shine on me. No other joy can now charm me, ' Cept in the church I will be.

Forward now! From grace to glory, Experience the Body's strength. Her fullness my reality, Living for her till my death. Till earthly min'stry's conclusion, Till the race comes to an ending. Till hope shall turn to glad fruition, Round the throne our praises ring!